Adjustable vertical brace

ABSTRACT

An adjustable bracing system is provided for a vertical wall structure that includes a vertical member having keyed openings and a generally Z-shaped cross-section. The bracing system further includes an extension member and an outrigger bracket that have cleats for removable engagement with the keyed openings of the vertical member and an adjustable strut that is pivotally secured to the bracket member.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to bracing structures, and morespecifically, to an adjustable static bracing system for a vertical wallstructure.

BACKGROUND

Concrete is a popular choice for forming both the interior and exteriorwalls of a building structure. Concrete walls are generally formed bypouring uncured concrete into a cavity created by wall forms andallowing the concrete to cure. Typically, the concrete wall forms areset up in parallel to define the sides of the concrete wall andinterconnected by a series of wall ties that fix the distance betweenopposing wall forms. One method of forming cast concrete walls is byusing discrete wall forms made from insulating and light-weightmaterial, such as for example, an expanded polystyrene (EPS). Such wallforms are generally referred to as insulating concrete (ICF) forms.Benefits of ICF forms include light weight, ease of use, and ability toleave the forms in place after concrete has set and hardened to provideinsulation on both the inside and outside of the concrete wall.

Generally, to support the various wall forms as they are set in placeand to resist movement caused by typical construction loads, includinghydrostatic pressure generated during the pouring process and windforces, support braces are conventionally used to shore the wall formsand retain the forms in place until the cast concrete wall has properlycured. Many of such support braces are difficult to transport betweenconstruction sites; have limited capability for adjustment onceassembled in place; and have inherent height restrictions.

SUMMARY

In accordance with the present invention, an adjustable bracingapparatus for vertical wall structures that offers improved versatilityis provided. In one aspect, the present disclosure provides a bracingsystem for supporting a vertical structure that includes a verticalmember comprising at least two keyed openings, the vertical memberhaving a substantially Z-shaped cross-section; a bracket comprising atleast two cleat members being removably engagable with the at least twokeyed openings of the vertical member; and an adjustable strut memberhaving an end secured to the bracket.

In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a brace assembly fora vertical tall wall structure that includes a first vertical member anda second vertical member, each of the first and second vertical membersrespectively having a first end and a second end defining therebetween alongitudinal axis and at least two openings disposed along each of saidrespective longitudinal axes, wherein the first and second verticalmembers are arranged along their respective longitudinal axes so that asecond end of the first vertical member is connected to a first end ofthe second vertical member; and an extension member comprising aplurality of engagement members, wherein one of the plurality ofengagement members is slidably engaged with a first opening of the firstvertical member at the second end and another of the plurality ofengagement members is slidably engaged with a second opening disposed onthe second vertical member at the first end, wherein when the pluralityof engagement members are secured in the first and second openings,respectively, the first and second vertical members are securely coupledtogether for supporting the tall wall structure.

In yet another aspect, the present disclosure provides a brace assemblyfor a vertical tall wall structure that includes a vertical memberdefining a longitudinal axis, the vertical member having a plurality ofkeyed openings formed therein and comprising a plurality of discretevertical sections and an extension member securing the discrete verticalsections, wherein the extension member comprises a plurality of cleatmembers, wherein at least one of the plurality of cleat members issecured within a corresponding one of the plurality of keyed openingsassociated with each of the discrete vertical sections; a bracket havinga first lateral end and a second lateral end, wherein the first lateralend is secured to the vertical member via at least two of the pluralityof keyed openings and the second lateral end includes at least onesecond opening; and an adjustable length strut member having a distalend and a proximal end, wherein the proximal end is secured to thesecond lateral end of the bracket member via the second opening and thedistal end is pivotally coupled to a support substantially orthogonal tothe longitudinal axis.

In still another aspect, the present disclosure provides an apparatuscomprising a wall structure including a lower end; a foundation locatedadjacent the lower end of said wall structure; a pin removably securedto the foundation; an elongated body including a first end and a secondend, the first end being pivotally attached to the wall structure; and afoot assembly movably coupled to the second end, the pivot foot assemblyincluding a foot bracket having an opening, wherein the opening operablyreceives the pin and the foot assembly is operably secured to thefoundation by the pin member extending through the opening.

In still another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method ofassembling a bracing structure for a building wall structure, the methodcomprising attaching a vertical member to the building wall structure,wherein the vertical member has a substantially Z-shaped cross-sectionand includes at least two keyed openings; securing a bracket to thevertical member via the at least two keyed openings; and attaching anadjustable strut member to the bracket.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the descriptionprovided herein. It should be understood that the description andspecific examples are intended for purposes of illustration only and arenot intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a partially fragmented side elevational view of an adjustablebracing system for a vertical wall structure according to the principlesof the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a partially fragmented side elevational view of the verticalmember associated with the adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a partially fragmented front elevational view of the verticalmember associated with the adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the vertical member associated withthe adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a side elevational view, shown partially in section, of theend plate associated with the adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of the end plate associated with theadjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a side elevational view of the outrigger bracket associatedwith the adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a bottom elevational view of the outrigger bracket associatedwith the adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is an exploded elevational view of the strut associated with theadjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of the strut associatedwith the adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 9;

FIG. 11 is a partially fragmented side elevational view showing anotheradjustable bracing system for a vertical wall structure according to theprinciples of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of the extension associated with theadjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is front elevational view of the extension associated with theadjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the intermediate brace associatedwith the adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 15 is a bottom elevational view of the intermediate braceassociated with the adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 11;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view showing yet another adjustable bracingsystem for a vertical wall structure according to the principles of thepresent disclosure; and

FIG. 17 is a top elevational view of a portion of the strut associatedwith the adjustable bracing system shown in FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is notintended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses. Itshould be understood that throughout the drawings, correspondingreference numerals indicate like or corresponding parts and features.

In conventional wall bracing systems, after concrete has been pouredinto a form and the concrete has fully cured, the wall forms are oftenstripped from the walls and reused. Many conventional concrete forms aremade of wood and steel. These forms can be very large and heavy andtherefore, require sturdy structural braces to adequately hold them inposition until the concrete has adequately set. ICF forms, on the otherhand, tend to be relatively lightweight and durable and can include, byway of example, two polymer-based (e.g., EPS) panels held together byplastic ties and defining a form therebetween. ICF forms typicallyinclude fastening surfaces or anchoring regions, often associated withthe plastic ties, which allow support structures to be attached to theoutside of the ICF forms to provide support thereto.

Various conventional support braces are commonly fastened to wall formsand supported by a leg secured to a suitable surrounding horizontal baseor foundation. Often, when building a concrete wall, there is a need toadjust the position of the wall forms and/or corresponding wallstructure during the construction process. However, adjustable braceshave not provided the capability to make adequate fine adjustments tothe position of the wall forms and corresponding wall structure oncepositioned in a weight-bearing assembly. Furthermore, conventional wallbraces do not adequately provide support to so-called “tall wall”structures, for example, those walls having heights above about 10 to 12feet. Once the concrete cures, the support braces are disassembled andremoved from the wall forms. Many reusable support braces tend to becumbersome and heavy, when transported from one job site to another. Inaccordance with the various embodiments of the present disclosure, abrace assembly system is provided that is relatively lightweight,strong, durable, easy to use and transport, and provides the ability forfrequent adjustment, fine tuning and shoring of a wall system, evenafter assembly into a weight-bearing position, and high wall structuresupport.

Referring to FIG. 1, a first preferred embodiment of an adjustable braceassembly 10 for a vertical wall structure 12 according to the principlesof the present disclosure will now be described. Wall structure 12 canbe a poured concrete wall formed using ICF forms. Alternatively, wallstructure 12 can be any other vertical wall structure, which requiresbrace assemblies for support, such as masonry and conventional pouredcement forms. However, the principles of the present disclosure areparticularly advantageous for use in conjunction with ICFs, as will bedescribed in further detail herein. For exemplary purposes, braceassembly 10 will be described herein with reference to ICF formsassociated with wall structure 12.

With particular reference to FIGS. 1-4, brace assembly 10 engages wallstructure 12 and is configured to provide adjustable lateral support forwall structure 12. Brace assembly 10 includes a frame assembly 14 havinga vertical member 16, an outrigger bracket 18, and an adjustable strut20. Frame assembly 14 includes vertical member 16 having a first end 22and a second end 24. Vertical member 16 has a longitudinal axisdesignated 17. Vertical member 16 has a length 26 between the first end22 and second end 24 which is substantially greater than its width. Incertain preferred aspects, the length 26 of the vertical member 16 isoptionally about 8 feet to about 10 feet long, however, any variety oflengths that are suitable in accordance with conventional constructionstandards for wall structures 12 are contemplated.

As will be described in further detail below, vertical member 16 has across-section (best seen in FIG. 4), which has at least two bends formedtherein, optionally more than two bends. By way of illustration, a“bend” is meant to indicate that an otherwise undisturbed planecorresponding to the vertical member 16 cross-section has at least twodistinct angles formed therein, typically by a metal-working deformationprocess, such as stamping. In certain embodiments, the plurality ofbends define a first bend 28 having a first angle 30 and a second bend32 having a second angle 34. The first angle 30 and the second angle 34may be the same or different from one another. Preferably, the first andsecond bends 28, 32 are transverse to one another. In certainembodiments, the first angle 30 and/or second angle 34 is greater thanor equal to about 85°. In certain aspects, the cross-section with aplurality of bends defines a sinusoidal geometry. In certainembodiments, the first angle 30 and/or second angle 34 is greater thanor equal to about 90°. In certain preferred embodiments, the first angle30 and the second angle 34 are equal to about 90°, such as is shown inFIG. 4. In this embodiment, the plurality of bends defines a first bendhaving a first angle 30 and a second bend having a second angle 34,wherein the angle is about 90°. In this embodiment, the plurality ofbends defines a substantially “Z-shaped” geometry.

Thus, the at least two bends 28, 32 in the cross-section of verticalmember 16 create a first flange portion 36, a web portion 38 having aplurality of openings 40 for receiving engagement members, and a secondflange portion 42. The first end 22 of vertical member 16 includes anend plate 44 having a cleat 46. Vertical member 16 can be fastened towall structure 12 as shown.

Frame assembly 14 is pivotally connected to a base 48 defining a planethat is that is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis 17 ofvertical member 16. As shown in FIG. 1, base 48 is a foundation that issubstantially orthogonal to both the wall structure 12 and to thelongitudinal axis 17. Thus, vertical member 16 is fastened at the firstend 22 to foundation base 48 and extends in a vertical direction alonglongitudinal axis 17 that is generally parallel to wall structure 12.Foundation base 48 provides ground support for wall structure 12 and canbe a poured concrete slab-on-grade foundation as shown. Alternatively,foundation base 48 can be a spread footing as is commonly used forconstruction of wall structures or any other suitable foundation forsupporting wall structure 12. Other suitable foundation bases 48 includegraded earth and the like.

Outrigger bracket 18 has a first lateral end 50 and a second lateral end52. A pair of engagement members 56, such as cleats, is disposed on thefirst lateral end 50. As will be described in more detail below, anyvariety of readily detachable engagement members compatible withslot-type openings well known in the art are suitable for use inconjunction with various embodiments described herein, includingintegral engagement members, such as pegs, cleats, or the like. Apreferred embodiment of the present disclosure provides the engagementmembers of outrigger bracket 18 as cleats 56.

The brace assembly 10 further includes strut 20 having a distal end 58and a proximal end 60. The strut 20 has an engagement member 62 at theproximal end 60, where a preferred embodiment is a similar cleat-typeengagement member 62. The cleat engagement member 62 of strut 20 engageswith at least one second opening 64 on second lateral end 52 ofoutrigger bracket 18.

When the brace assembly 10 is assembled and in a weight-bearing positionfor supporting the wall structure 12, the first lateral end 50 ofoutrigger bracket 18 is coupled to the vertical member 16 via cleats 56through openings 40 and is substantially orthogonal to longitudinal axis17 and substantially parallel to the plane defined by foundation base48. The second lateral end 52 of outrigger bracket 18 is removably andpivotally secured to the proximal end 60 of strut 20. The vertical frameassembly 14 (including vertical member 16), strut 20, and outriggerbracket 18 are coupled to one another in a weight-bearing relationshipto provide structural support to the wall structure 12.

With renewed reference to vertical member 16 in FIG. 4, the braceassembly of the present disclosure provides a light-weight and robustsystem. As described above, the vertical member 16 has a cross-sectionwith at least two bends formed therein. Thus, vertical member 16includes a first contact surface 70 adjacent to a substantiallyorthogonal second contact surface 72, where the first contact surface 70contacts at least a portion of the wall structure 12 and the secondcontact surface 72 contacts at least a portion of the outrigger bracket18.

First flange portion 36 is generally planar in shape and engages wallstructure 12 along the first contact surface 70 that is generallyparallel to wall structure 12. First contact surface 70 is defined by awidth 74 that provides sufficient area to allow loads to be transferredbetween the ICF forms associated with wall structure 12 and braceassembly 10. For example, in certain preferred embodiments, a suitabledimension for width 74 is about 0.5 to about 3 inches, optionally about1 to about 2 inches, and in certain aspects, preferably about 1.5inches. First flange portion 36 can include a plurality of slots 76, 78(see FIG. 3) extending through first flange portion 36 along an axisparallel to longitudinal axis 17 that allows vertical member 16 to beattached to wall structure 12 by a plurality of fasteners (not shown).Slots 76, 78 can be oriented in a generally horizontal and verticalfashion, respectively, as shown. For exemplary purposes, slots 76, 78can be positioned at regular intervals along first flange portion 36corresponding to dimensions of attachment regions associated with theICF forms of wall structure 12. For example, such slots can be arrangedat 6 inch intervals to correspond to an anchoring region of an ICF.Slots 76, 78 can be arranged in a generally alternating fashion as shownto provide a visual cue for determining the specific points at whichvertical member 16 is to be fastened to wall structure 12. For example,if vertical member 16 is to be fastened to wall structure 12 every foot(12 inches), vertical member 16 can be fastened to wall structure 12using only horizontal slots 76 or vertical slots 78 where slots 76, 78are alternatively spaced at 6 inch intervals as previously described.Similarly, a plurality of slots 76 or slots 78 can be positionedadjacent one another to provide a visual cue that vertical member 16 isto be secured to wall structure 12 at several successive attachmentpoints.

Vertical member 16 can be formed of a wrought or stamped metal, such asgalvanized stainless steel or aluminum. Alternatively, vertical member16 can be an extruded part. As described above, the cross-section ofvertical member 16 preferably defines at least two bends having a firstangle 30 and a second angle 34. For example, in certain embodiments, thevertical member 16 is formed of an 11-gage galvanized steel sheet metal,which is stamped to have the desired cross-sectional conformation. Incertain preferred embodiments, the vertical member is formed from astamped 12-gage galvanized steel sheet metal. Thus, vertical member 16optionally has a generally Z-shaped cross-section as best seen in FIG.4. In this manner, in accordance with the present disclosure, thecross-sectional geometry of the vertical member 16 exhibits goodstrength and robustness, while still being lightweight. In addition tostructural benefits, including enhanced weight-load distribution, the atleast two bends in the cross-section provide for a higher stackingdensity that is beneficial when transporting vertical member 16, thusmaximizing packing density and minimizing volume occupied duringtransport.

Thus, web portion 38 of vertical member 16 adjoins first flange portion36 and is configured to receive and transmit loads between wallstructure 12 and outrigger bracket 18. To this end, web portion 38 has awidth 80 sufficient to accommodate openings 40, yet prevent buckling ofvertical member 16 under typical loads. While a variety of dimensionsare contemplated, as recognized by those of skill in the art, apreferred dimension for width 80 is about 3 to about 4 inches, forexample, a preferred dimension for width 80 in a 12-gage steel thicknessis about 3.75 inches. Web portion 38 has a first face 82 facing firstflange portion 36 and a second face 84 facing second flange portion 42.A plurality of slot-like openings 40 extend through web portion 38 andare aligned along longitudinal axis 17 at a regular interval 86 as bestseen in FIG. 2. For exemplary purposes, interval 86 is about 8 inches.While a variety of openings are contemplated for removable detachmentwith cleats 46, 56, a preferred embodiment has so-called “key” shapedopenings 40. Keyed openings 40 have a major axis 88 substantiallyparallel to the longitudinal axis 17 and have an upper portion 90configured to receive cleats 46, 56 and a lower portion 92 havingbearing walls 94, 96 configured to slidably engage and support cleats46, 56. Upper portion 90 can be generally oval in shape as shown and issized to allow cleats 46, 56 to pass into upper portion 90. Lowerportion 92 can be generally u-shaped, where walls 94, 96 form taperedsides of lower portion 92 that snugly engage a portion of cleats 46, 56as cleats 46, 56 are slid within lower portion 92 to provide aninterference fit. Thus, walls 94, 96 can define an acute included angle98. In certain preferred embodiments, included angle 98 can be between3° and 4° to provide a self-locking feature to lower portion 92 of keyedopenings 40. For exemplary purposes, included angle 98 is about 3.5°. Inthis manner, keyed openings 40 can work together with cleats 46, 56 toallow outrigger bracket 18 and end plate 44 to be removably secured tovertical member 16 at various points along the length of vertical member16.

Second flange portion 42 adjoins web portion 38 opposite first flangeportion 36. Second flange portion 42 provides additional lateral supportto web portion 38 and helps to prevent damage to web portion 38 duringthe transportation, assembly, and use of vertical member 16.Additionally, second flange portion 42 can be used to fasten a whaler(not shown) to vertical member 16 to provide additional support alongthe length of wall structure 12 as may be desired. A width 91 of secondflange portion 42 equal to 1 inch has been found to be suitable.

Referring to FIGS. 5-6, end plate 44 will now be described in detail.End plate 44 is removably secured to vertical member 16 and isconfigured to allow first end 22 of vertical member 16 to be fastened tofoundation base 48. End plate 44 can be generally L-shaped as best seenin FIG. 6. End plate 44 is preferably formed from stamping a metal, suchas stamped 11-gage galvanized steel. End plate 44 includes cleat 46 aspreviously mentioned, first leg 100 and second leg 102. Cleat 46protrudes from first leg 100 and is configured to be received by andslidably engage one of keyed openings 40 on the lower end of verticalmember 16. Cleat 46 can be formed integral to end plate 44 as shown.Cleat 46 includes a head portion 104 and shoulder portions 106, 108.Head portion 104 is configured to be received through upper portion 90of keyed openings 40. Head portion 104 includes an inner face 110 thatslidably engages first face 82 of vertical member 16 when cleat 46 ispositioned within a corresponding lower portion 92 of keyed openings 40.Head portion 104 can have a polygonal shape as shown. Shoulder portions106, 108 protrude from first leg 100 and connect head portion 104 tofirst leg 100. Shoulder portions 106, 108 are received within lowerportion 92 of keyed openings 40 and include abutment walls 112, 114 thatsnugly engage bearing walls 94, 96, respectively, when cleat 46 ispositioned within lower portion 92. In this manner, cleat 46 workstogether with one of keyed openings 40 to removably secure end plate 44to vertical member 16.

First leg 100 is generally planar in shape and adjoins second leg 102.First leg 100 extends from second leg 102 in a substantially verticaldirection. First leg 100 includes an inner face 116 that slidablyengages first face 82 to ensure a snug engagement between verticalmember 16 and end plate 44. Second leg 102 is generally planar andextends from first leg 100 in a substantially horizontal direction.Second leg 102 is configured to be attached to foundation base 48 usingone or more fasteners (not shown). To this end, second leg 102 caninclude a plurality of fastener holes 120 as shown. End plate 44 can befastened directly to foundation base 48 or to a wooden blocker 122 gluedto foundation base 48 as illustrated in FIG. 1. The latter approach maybe desired to avoid drilling holes in foundation base 48 to secure endplate 44 to foundation base 48.

Outrigger bracket 18 is configured to provide lateral support for frameassembly 14 and resist loads during the concrete pouring process thatmay associated with forming wall structure 12. Accordingly, outriggerbracket 18 is removably secured to vertical member 16 on one end andconnected to strut 20 on an opposite end. In certain preferredembodiments, outrigger bracket 18 is formed of stamped 11-gagegalvanized steel sheet metal. Outrigger bracket 18 includes cleats 56disposed on first lateral end 50 as previously mentioned, a body 126,and second lateral end 52. Cleats 56 are substantially similar to cleat46 and can be formed integral to outrigger bracket 18 on first lateralend 50 as illustrated. Cleats 56 are spaced apart by an interval 132corresponding to the spacing of keyed openings 40 at interval 86.Additionally, cleats 56 are oriented in a manner that allows cleats 56to be simultaneously received through a corresponding upper portion 90of keyed openings 40 and slidably engaged with a corresponding lowerportion 90 of keyed openings 40. Thus, interval 132 can be equal tointerval 86 or an integer multiple of interval 86. For exemplarypurposes, interval 132 is optionally about 8 inches. Thus, it will beappreciated that cleats 56 can work together with two of keyed openings40 to removably secure outrigger bracket 18 to vertical member 16 atvarious points along vertical member 16.

Body 126 is generally planar in shape and configured to transmit loadsbetween first lateral end 50 and second lateral end 52 without buckling.Body 126 can also be configured to support a working platform as may bedesired. Accordingly, body 126 can include a stiffening flange 134 and asupport flange 136. Stiffening flange 134 can be generally planar inshape and formed integral to body 126 between first and second lateralends 50, 52 on the lower portion of body 126. Specifically, stiffeningflange 134 can define a plane that is oblique to the major plane definedby body 126. Support flange 136 can be generally planar in shape andformed integral to body 126 between first and second lateral ends 50, 52on the upper portion of body 126. Support flange 136 can define a planethat is substantially orthogonal with the major plane defined by body126 and include a plurality of slots 138 extending through supportflange 136. Slots 138 can be of varying lengths and spaced apart alongsupport flange 136 as shown. To reduce the mass of outrigger bracket 18,body 126 can further include perforations 140.

First lateral end 50 is configured to work together with cleats 56 toreceive and transmit loads to body 126. First lateral end 50 includes awall 142 that can engage second face 84 of vertical member 16 whencleats 56 are positioned within a corresponding lower portion 92 ofkeyed openings 40. Thus, it will be appreciated that first lateral end50 works together with cleats 56 to provide a snug engagement betweenoutrigger bracket 18 and vertical member 16.

Second lateral end 52 includes keyed second opening 64. Second opening144 includes a first portion 146 configured to receive engagement member62 of strut 20 and a second portion 148 to rotatably support a portionof engagement member 62 of strut 20. First portion 146 can be generallyelliptical in shape and be oriented such that the major axis of firstportion 146 is substantially perpendicular to longitudinal axis 17 asillustrated. Second portion 148 can be generally circular in shape andhave a diameter smaller than the major diameter of first portion 146 andcorresponding to a portion of engagement member 62. Second lateral end52 can further include a flange 150 for securing a vertical post 152, tooutrigger bracket 18 in a substantially vertical orientation as may bedesired. Flange 150 can be generally c-shaped and include a plurality ofholes 154 that can be used to fasten post 152 to outrigger bracket 18.Post 152 can be a conventional wooden 2×4 stud or any other suitablemetal or composite vertical member.

Referring to FIGS. 9-10, strut 20 will now be described in detail. Strut20 is configured to provide support for frame assembly 14 and outriggerbracket 18 and resist loads during the concrete pouring process that maybe associated with forming wall structure 12. Strut 20 includes a body160, a swivel lock assembly 162 threadingly engaged on proximal end 60with body 160, and a pivot foot assembly 164 threadingly engaged ondistal end 58 with body 160.

Body 160 includes a first tube 166, a second tube 168, and an adjustmentpin 170. First tube 166 is slidably received within second tube 168 andincludes a threaded portion 174 on a distal end of first tube 166 and aplurality of adjustment holes 176 extending crosswise through first tube166. First tube 166 can be made from metal tubing, for example, incertain preferred embodiments; first tube 166 is formed of 1¼ inchsquare steel tubing. Threaded portion 174 is configured to threadinglyengage a portion of pivot foot assembly 164 and can be a right-handedthreaded steel nut welded to the end of first tube 166 as shown.Adjustment holes 176 are configured to slidably receive adjustment pin170. Second tube 168 includes a threaded portion 178 on a distal end ofsecond tube 168 and at least one adjustment hole 180 extending crosswisethrough second tube 168 in a manner similar to adjustment holes 176. Itwill be appreciated that adjustment hole 180 can be aligned withadjustment holes 176 by adjusting the position of first tube 166 withinsecond tube 168. Second tube 168 can be made from smaller diameter metaltubing than first tube 166, for example in preferred embodiments secondtube 168 is made of 1½ inch square steel tubing. Threaded portion 178 isconfigured to threadingly engage a portion of swivel lock assembly 162and can be a left-handed threaded steel nut welded to the end of secondtube 168 as shown. Adjustment pin 170 is configured to slidably engageone of the plurality of adjustment holes 176 in first tube 166 andadjustment hole 180 in second tube 168 to fix the length of body 160 asmay be desired. Second tube 168 can further include an extension hole182 extending crosswise through second tube 168 on the end havingthreaded portion 178 to permit an extension to be coupled to second tube168 as will be described.

Swivel lock assembly 162 is configured to be removably secured tooutrigger bracket 18. Swivel lock assembly 162 has a turn-buckle typedesign that includes engagement member 62, a body 190, and threaded rod192. Engagement member 62 is substantially similar to cleat 46 aspreviously described and can be formed integral to body 190 on one endas shown. Body 190 is configured to receive and transmit loads betweenoutrigger bracket 18 and strut 20. Body 190 can be generally c-shaped asshown. In certain preferred embodiments, body 190 is formed of stamped11-gage galvanized steel. Threaded rod 192 is configured to threadinglyengage threaded portion 178 of second tube 168. In certain embodiments,threaded rod 192 can be formed of left-handed ¾ coil thread steel rodand welded to body 190 as shown.

Pivot foot assembly 164 is configured to pivotally secure strut 20 tofoundation base 48. Accordingly, pivot foot assembly 164 can include afoot bracket 194, a pivot block 196, and a threaded rod 198. Footbracket 194 and pivot block 196 can be generally formed of a wrought orstamped metal, such as galvanized stainless steel or aluminum. In onepreferred embodiment, foot bracket 194 and pivot block 196 can be formedof 8-gage galvanized steel sheet metal. Foot bracket 194 is pivotallycoupled to pivot block 196 and can be secured directly to foundationbase 48 by a ⅞ inch perforated curb pin commonly used in the industry orto a wooden blocker 200 glued to the foundation base 48 as illustratedin FIG. 1. With particular reference to FIG. 17, foot bracket 194 caninclude a body 202 having a hole 203, a stanchion 204, and fastenerholes 205. Body 202 is generally planar and adapted to be secured tofoundation base 48 by driving a ⅞ inch perforated curb pin through hole203. Hole 203 is adapted to snugly engage the body of the perforatedcurb pin and thereby inhibit relative lateral movement between body 202and the perforated curb pin. Thus, in one preferred embodiment, hole 203can have a diameter of about 29/32 of an inch. Alternatively, thediameter of hole 203 can vary to accommodate perforated curb pins ofvarying diameters. It will be appreciated that a nail, such as a 16Dcommon nail, can be inserted through a cross-wise hole in the perforatedcurb pin before driving the curb pin through hole 203 and used to securebody 202 to foundation base 48 in a vertical orientation. Specifically,the curb pin can be driven through hole 203 into foundation base 48until the nail contacts body 202.

Stanchion 204 is configured to pivotally secure body 202 to pivot block196. Stanchion 204 can include a first support flange 206 and a secondsupport flange 207. First and second support flanges 206, 207 aregenerally planar in shape and can be spaced apart to allow pivot block196 to be slidingly received between support flanges 206, 207. Firstsupport flange 206 can be formed integral to body 202 as shown. Secondsupport flange can be welded to body 202 as shown. First and secondsupport flanges 206, 207 are generally oriented orthogonally to themajor plane defined by body 202. First and second support flanges caninclude through bores 208, 209 adapted to receive a fastener (not shown)that can be used to pivotally secure stanchion 204 to pivot block 196.Fastener holes 205 can extend through body 202 to allow body 202 to befastened to foundation base 48 or wooden blocker 200 as illustrated inFIG. 1.

Pivot block 196 is rotatably coupled to stanchion 204 of foot bracket194 as previously described. Threaded rod 198 is configured tothreadingly engage threaded portion 174 of first tube 166. Threaded rod198 can be formed of right-handed ¾ coil thread steel rod and welded topivot block 196 as shown. Alternate embodiments of pivot foot assembly164 are also contemplated. For example, while pivot block 196 is shownto be connected to foundation base 48 by foot bracket 194, pivot block196 can be connected to foundation base 48 using a curb pin as iscommonly used in the industry.

From the foregoing, it will be appreciated that strut 20 can beremovable secured to outrigger bracket 18 by orienting strut 20 in amanner that allows engagement member 62 to be received within firstportion 146 and subsequently rotating strut 20 to a desired position. Itwill also be appreciated that coarse adjustments to the length of strut20 can be made using adjustment holes 176, 180, while fine adjustmentscan be made by twisting body 160. In a weight-bearing position, strut 20is preferably positioned at an angle between 35° and 50° fromlongitudinal axis 17 as shown.

Referring now to FIGS. 11-15, a second preferred embodiment of anadjustable brace assembly 210 for a vertical tall wall structure 212according to the principles of the present disclosure will now bedescribed. Brace assembly 210 is similar to brace assembly 10 describedabove, and for brevity shares like reference numerals for commonelements. Brace assembly 210 is generally configured to provide lateralsupport for vertical wall structures that are greater than about 10 feetin height. Additionally, brace assembly 210 provides features whichallow brace assembly 210 to be installed quickly to support wallstructure 212 and assist in the pouring process that may be associatedwith forming wall structure 212. Wall structure 212 can be any verticalwall structure to which brace assembly 210 can be attached.

Brace assembly 210 includes a frame assembly 220, outrigger bracket 18,a first strut 224, an intermediate brace 226, a second strut 228, and astiffback 230. Frame assembly 220 engages wall structure 212 and isconfigured to provide adjustable lateral support for wall structure 212.Accordingly, frame assembly 220 is removably secured to a foundation 232at a lower end and includes a vertical member 234 that extends in avertical direction along longitudinal axis 236. Foundation 232 providesground support for wall structure 212 and can be a poured concreteslab-on-grade foundation as shown.

Referring still to FIG. 11, vertical member 234 includes discretecomponents, namely a first frame member 240 and a second frame member242 connected to first frame member 240 by an extension 243. Frameassembly 220 further includes an endplate 44. First and second discreteframe members 240, 242 are substantially similar to vertical member 16as previously described. First frame member 240 has a first end 244 anda second end 246 and second frame member similarly has a first end 248and a second end 250. The first and second frame members, 240, 242 arealigned along their respective longitudinal axes to form the singlelongitudinal axis 236. Thus, first end 244 of first frame member 240attaches to end plate 44. Second end 246 of first frame member 240 iscoupled to first end 248 of second frame member 242 via extension member243. First and second frame members 240, 242 each include first flangeportion 36, web portion 38, keyed openings 40, and second flange portion42. Additionally, keyed openings 40 are spaced at regular interval 86.It will be appreciated that keyed openings 40 in first and second framemembers 240, 242 can be located along web portion 38 such that whenfirst frame member 240 and second frame member 242 are placed end-to-endas shown, the spacing between keyed openings 40 in first frame member240 and keyed openings 40 in second frame member 242 remains the same.It should also be appreciated that first and second frame members 240,242 can have varying lengths, for example, about 8 feet or 10 feet, aspreviously described. Alternatively, one or both of frame members 240,242 may be cut to any other desired length to coincide with varyingheights of wall structure 212.

As described above, extension 243 is configured to couple the second end246 of first frame member 240 with the first end 248 of second framemember 242 and provides structural support between first frame member240 and second frame member 242. Extension 243 can be generally L-shapedand formed of stamped metal. In certain preferred aspects, extension 243is formed from 11-gage or 12-gage galvanized steel sheet metal.Extension 243 includes a flange 252 and a body 254 having a plurality ofengaging members, or cleats 256. Flange 252 is generally planar in shapeand adapted to slidingly engage a portion of first flange portion 36 offirst and second frame members 240, 242 when extension 243 is connectedto first and second frame members 240, 242. Flange 252 can include aplurality of slots 258 spaced at an interval 259 along flange 252 andlocated such that slots 258 align with slots 76, 78 in first and secondframe members 240, 242 when extension 243 is connected to first andsecond frame members 240, 242. For exemplary purposes, slots 258 can bespaced at an interval 259 equal to about 6 inches.

Body 254 is generally planar in shape and adapted to slidingly engage afirst face 82 of web portion 38 of first and second frame members 240,242 when extension 243 is connected to first and second frame members240, 242. For exemplary purposes, body 254 can have three engagingmember cleats 256, as shown. Cleats 256 protrude from the side of body254 opposite flange 252 and are substantially similar to cleats 46, 56.Cleats 256 can be formed integral to extension 243. Cleats 256 arespaced apart by an interval 260 corresponding to the spacing of keyedopenings 40 at interval 86. Thus, interval 260 can be equal to interval86 or an integer multiple of interval 86. For exemplary purposes,interval 260 is 8 inches. Additionally, cleats 256 are oriented in amanner that allows each of cleats 256 to be simultaneously received by acorresponding upper portion 90 of keyed openings 40 and slidably engagedby a corresponding lower portion 90 of keyed openings 40. Specifically,two of cleats 256 can engage a corresponding two of keyed openings 40 atthe second end 246 of first frame member 240 as illustrated in FIG. 11.The third of cleats 256 can engage a corresponding one of keyed openings40 at the first end 248 of second frame member 242. Extension 243 canfurther include a turndown flange 262 located on the upper end ofextension 243 that facilitates the assembly of extension 243 to firstand second frame members 240, 242. Specifically, turndown flange 262provides a surface that can be used to drive extension 243 into slidingengagement with first and second frame members 240, 242. In theforegoing manner, cleats 256 can work together with keyed openings 40 offirst and second frame members 240, 242 to removably secure first framemember 240 to second frame member 242.

End plate 44 is configured to secure the first end 244 of first framemember 240 to foundation 232. Accordingly, end plate 44 includes cleat46 and is removably secured to the first end 244 of first frame member240 in the manner previously described for vertical member 16. End plate44 can be secured to a wooden blocker 122 glued to foundation 232.

Outrigger bracket 18 is configured to provide support for frame assembly220 and distribute loads during the concrete pouring process that may beassociated with forming wall structure 212. Accordingly, first lateralend 50 of outrigger bracket 18 can be removably secured to frameassembly 220 and second lateral end 52 of outrigger bracket 18 can beconnected to first strut 224. Additionally, stiffback 230 can bereceived within flange 150 and secured to outrigger bracket 18 as shown.

First adjustable length strut 224 is configured to be pivotally securedto outrigger bracket 18 and intermediate brace 226 and thereby providesupport for frame assembly 220 and resist loads during the concreteprocess that may be associated with forming wall structure 212. Forexemplary purposes, first strut 224 can be removably secured tooutrigger bracket 18 as illustrated in FIG. 11. It will be appreciatedthat first adjustable length first strut 224 is similar to adjustablelength strut 20, however first strut 224 is adapted to span greaterdistances than strut 20. As such, first strut 224 can include a body268, a swivel lock assembly 162 threadingly engaged with body 268 tocouple one end of first strut 224 to outrigger bracket 18, and a pivotfoot assembly 270 threadingly engaged with body 268 to secure anopposite end of outrigger bracket 18 to an earth foundation 272. Body268 includes first tube 166, second tube 168, and an extension tube 274.First tube 166 retains all of the features previously described andincludes threaded portion 174 for threadingly engaging a portion ofpivot foot assembly 270. Similarly, second tube 168 retains the featurespreviously described and can be secured to first tube 166 usingadjustment pin 170. Extension tube 274 is configured to receive secondtube 168 and includes a threaded portion 276 on a distal end ofextension tube 274 and at least one adjustment hole 278. For exemplarypurposes, extension tube 274 can be made from 1¾ inch square steeltubing. Threaded portion 276 is configured to threadingly engage aportion of swivel lock assembly 162 and can be a left-handed threadedsteel nut welded to the end of extension tube 274 as shown. Adjustmenthole 278 extends crosswise through extension tube 274 in a mannersimilar to extension hole 182 of second tube 168. Thus, it will beappreciated that adjustment hole 278 can be aligned with extension hole182 by adjusting the position of second tube 168 within extension tube274. With adjustment hole 278 aligned with extension hole 182, extensiontube 274 can be secured to second tube 168 using another adjustment pin170.

Pivot foot assembly 270 is configured to pivotally secure first strut224 to foundation 272 using a perforated curb pin 280. While notlimiting, perforated curb pin 280 can be a ⅞ inch perforated curb pin,which is commonly used in construction and includes a plurality ofcross-wise holes configured to receive a 16D common nail. Pivot footassembly 270 is substantially similar to pivot foot assembly 164.Accordingly, pivot foot assembly 270 includes foot bracket 194, pivotblock 196, and threaded rod 198 as previously described. Foot bracket194 can include hole 203 having a diameter of 29/32 inch. Threaded rod198 can be welded to pivot block 196 on one end and threadingly engagedwith first tube 166 of first strut 224. Thus, it will be appreciatedthat pivot foot assembly 270 can be pivotally secured to foundation 272by inserting a nail cross-wise through perforated curb pin 280 anddriving perforated curb pin 280 through hole 203 into foundation 272until the nail contacts foot bracket 194 as illustrated in FIG. 11. Itwill be appreciated that a sufficient portion of perforated curb pin 280must be driven into foundation 272 to create a stable and secureattachment of pivot foot assembly 270 to foundation 272.

Intermediate brace 226 is configured to be removably secured on one endto frame assembly 220 at any one of the plurality of keyed openings 40and to receive stiffback 230 on an opposite end. Intermediate brace 226can also be configured to allow first strut 224 or second strut 228 tobe pivotally secured on one end. Additionally, intermediate brace 226 isconfigured to serve as a rung in a ladder that can be constructed usingintermediate brace 226. Intermediate brace 226 includes a support 282, afirst end 284, and a second end 286. Support 282 can be tubular in shapeand constructed of 1.5 inch square steel tubing as shown. First end 284is configured to be removably secured to frame assembly 220 and can bewelded to one end of support 282. First end 284 is generally c-shapedand can be formed from 11-gage galvanized steel. First end 284 can bewelded to one end of support 282 and includes an engaging member cleat288. Cleat 288 protrudes from the side of first end 284 and issubstantially similar to cleats 46, 56, 254 as previously described.Cleat 288 can be formed integral to first end 284. Accordingly, it willbe appreciated that cleat 288 can work together with one of keyedopenings 40 associated with first and second frame members 240, 242 toremovably secure first end 284 to one of first and second frame members240, 242.

Second end 286 is generally planar in shape and can be formed of 11-gagegalvanized steel. Second end 286 includes a body 290, a flange 292, anda plurality of holes 294. Body 290 is generally planar in shape and canbe welded to support 282. Flange 292 is generally L-shaped andconfigured to receive a portion of stiffback 230. Flange 292 can bewelded to second end 286. Holes 294 extend through body 290 proximateflange 292 to allow fasteners (not shown) to be used to fasten stiffback230 to second end 286.

As previously mentioned herein, intermediate brace 226 can also beconfigured to allow first strut 224 or second strut 228 to be pivotallysecured on one end. To this end, body 290 can extend beyond flange 292and further include keyed opening 296 as shown. Keyed opening 296extends through body 290 and includes a first portion 298 configured toreceive engagement member 62 of first strut 224 and a second portion 300to rotatably support a portion of engagement member 62. First and secondportions 298, 300 are substantially similar to first and second portions146, 148, respectively. Thus, it will be appreciated that second end 286can work together with swivel lock assembly 162 to pivotally securefirst strut 224 to intermediate brace 226.

Second strut 228 is configured to be secured to outrigger bracket 18 andintermediate brace 226 and to provide support for frame assembly 220 andresist loads during the concrete process that may be associated withforming wall structure 212. Second strut 228 is optionally removablysecured to intermediate brace 226 as shown to provide additional supportfor wall structure 212 at a point between foundation 232 and outriggerbracket 18, where necessary. For example, as the wall height becomesrelatively high, it may be desirable to include the second strut 228 (ora plurality of additional struts) for additional load distribution andvertical support below the first strut 224. Second strut 228 issubstantially similar to strut 20 and includes swivel lock assembly 162,first tube 166, second tube 168, adjustment pin 170, and a pivot footassembly 302. Pivot foot assembly 302 is configured to pivotally securesecond strut 228 to foundation 272 using a perforated curb pin 280 aspreviously described herein for pivot foot assembly 270. Accordingly,pivot foot assembly 302 includes foot bracket 194, pivot block 196, andthreaded rod 198. Foot bracket 194 can include hole 203 having adiameter of 29/32 inch. Threaded rod 198 can be welded to pivot block196 on one end and threadingly engaged with first tube 166 of firststrut 224. Thus, it will be appreciated that pivot foot assembly 302 canbe pivotally secured to foundation 272 in substantially the same manneras pivot foot assembly 270 as illustrated.

Stiffback 230 provides additional support for frame assembly 220,outrigger bracket 18, and intermediate brace 226. Stiffback 230 can be astandard vertical post, such as a wooden 2×4 stud that extends fromfoundation 272 to a point beyond the location of outrigger bracket 18 asmay be desired. Stiffback 230 can be positioned and secured to outriggerbracket 18 and intermediate brace 226 using a plurality of fasteners aspreviously described. In the foregoing manner, stiffback 230 can provideadditional vertical support for outrigger bracket 18 and intermediatebrace 226 and additional lateral support for frame assembly 220.

Referring now to FIG. 16, a brace assembly 310 of a third preferredembodiment, illustrating certain principles of the present invention,will now be described in detail. Brace assembly 310 illustrates one of avariety of ways the various components of brace assembly 10 and braceassembly 210 can be combined to provide integrated support for avertical wall structure 312. Brace assembly 310 also illustrates how thevarious components of brace assembly 10 and brace assembly 210 can becombined to provide a structural working platform and related ladderassembly.

Accordingly, brace assembly 310 can include a plurality of the followingcomponents: vertical member 16, outrigger bracket 18, strut 20,stiffback 230, and intermediate brace 226. Brace assembly 310 canfurther include a walk plank 314 and safety rails 316. Brace assembly310 can be secured to wall structure 312 at regular intervals, forexample, every 4 feet, to provide lateral support at specific pointsalong the length of wall structure 312. Additionally, each outriggerbracket 18 of brace assembly 310 can be secured to a correspondingvertical member 16 at a position about 40 inches below the top of wallstructure 312 to provide a suitable working platform height as will bedescribed. Stiffback 230 can be secured to every other vertical member16 and extend about 42 inches above walk plank 314. Intermediate brace226 can be secured at regular intervals, for example, about every 12inches, along a corresponding vertical member 16 and stiffback 230 asshown to form a ladder assembly. Walk plank 314 can be placed onoutrigger bracket 18 to form the basis of a working platform. Walk plank314 can be loosely fastened to each corresponding outrigger bracket 18using elongated slots 138 to allow each brace assembly 10 to beindividually adjusted to set the desired position of wall structure 312.Additionally, once the position of wall structure 312 is set, walk plank314 can be tightly fastened to each outrigger bracket 18. As such itwill be appreciated that walk plank 314 can be used as a whaler forproviding longitudinal support for maintaining wall structure 312straight along its length. Safety rails 316 can be fastened to stiffback230 at desired heights above outrigger bracket 18 to provide adequateguarding for a working platform.

From the foregoing discussion, it should be apparent that braceassemblies 10, 210, 310 can be used to reduce the setup time required toprovide lateral support for a vertical wall structure. The braceassemblies according to the present disclosure provide the ability toeasily adjust the vertical brace assembly height, even after assemblingand securing the brace assembly in a weight-bearing position.Furthermore, the design of the present brace assemblies provides theability to adjust the amount of vertical support for both fine and/orcourse tuning to ensure appropriate shoring of the vertical wall priorto setting. Additionally, brace assemblies according to the principlesof the present disclosure can be disassembled, reused, and transportedin a convenient manner. Thus, the principles of the present disclosureprovide a robust and light-weight brace assembly, which can be easilytransported, occupying less volume than previous systems. Moreover, thebracing assemblies of the present disclosure provide the ability tosupport tall wall height structures, via the extension member design.Finally, bracing assemblies according to the present disclosure providea means for integrating a working platform and associated ladder thatalso serve as additional support for a vertical wall structure.

While the principles of the present disclosure are described inconnection with specific wall structures and brace assemblies, it willbe appreciated by one skilled in the art that the broad teachings of thepresent disclosure can be implemented in a variety of forms to providean adjustable bracing system for a variety of wall structures.Therefore, while this disclosure has been described in connection with aparticular example thereof, the true scope of the present disclosureshould not be so limited, because it is contemplated that othermodifications within the scope of the invention will become apparent tothe skilled practitioner upon a study of the drawings, thespecification, and the following claims. For example, the inventionshould not be limited to the representative and exemplary dimensions setforth above. It is intended by the following claims to cover these andany other departures from the disclosed embodiments which fall withinthe true spirit of this invention.

1. A bracing system for supporting a vertical wall structure comprising: a vertical member comprising at least two keyed openings, said vertical member having a substantially Z-shaped cross-section, the Z-shaped cross-section including a first flange portion separated from a second flange portion by a web portion, the first flange portion contacting the vertical wall structure; a bracket comprising at least two cleat members being removably engagable with said at least two keyed openings of said vertical member said bracket including a first end including said cleats and a second end; and an adjustable strut member having an end secured to said second end of said bracket, wherein said at least two keyed openings of said vertical member have a key-shape defining a major axis parallel to said longitudinal axis of said vertical member, said keyed openings respectively comprising an upper section for receiving one of said cleat members and a lower section for slidably engaging said respective cleat member via an interference fit wherein the vertical member and bracket are reversibly joined without the use of a separate fastener wherein the bracket and vertical brace remain joined under a load.
 2. The bracing system of claim 1, wherein said vertical member further comprises a first end and a second end defining therebetween a longitudinal axis and said at least two keyed openings are disposed along said longitudinal axis.
 3. The bracing system of claim 1, wherein said Z-shaped cross section defines a plurality of bends, said plurality of bends including a first bend having a first angle and a second bend having a second angle, wherein said first angle and said second angle are about 90°.
 4. The bracing system of claim 1 wherein the vertical wall structure comprises insulated concrete forms including at least one anchoring region and at least one fastening member for coupling said vertical member to said anchoring region.
 5. The bracing system of claim 1 wherein said adjustable strut comprises a swivel lock assembly in a region near said proximal end.
 6. The bracing system of claim 1 further comprising a foundation and an end plate for pivotally securing said second end of said first vertical member to said foundation, wherein said endplate includes an engagement member that can be removably secured within one of said plurality of first keyed openings to couple said first longitudinal member and said end plate.
 7. A brace assembly for a vertical tall wall structure comprising: a vertical member having a substantially Z-shaped cross-section, the Z-shaped cross-section including a first flange portion separated from a second flange portion by a web portion, the first flange portion contacting the vertical wall structure, said vertical member defining a longitudinal axis having a plurality of keyed openings formed therein, said vertical member comprising a plurality of discrete vertical sections and an extension member securing said discrete vertical sections, wherein said extension member comprises a plurality of cleat members, wherein at least one of said plurality of cleat members is secured within a corresponding one of said plurality of keyed openings associated with each of said discrete vertical sections; a bracket having a first lateral end and a second lateral end, wherein said first lateral end is secured to said vertical member via at least two of said plurality of keyed openings and said second lateral end includes at least one second opening; and an adjustable length strut member having a distal end and a proximal end, wherein said proximal end is secured to said second lateral end of said bracket member via said second opening and said distal end is pivotally coupled to a support substantially orthogonal to said longitudinal axis, wherein said at least two keyed openings of said vertical member have a key-shape defining a major axis parallel to said longitudinal axis of said vertical member, said keyed openings respectively comprising an upper section for receiving one of said cleat members and a lower section for slidably engaging said respective cleat member via an interference fit wherein the vertical member and bracket are reversibly joined without the use of a separate fastener wherein the bracket and vertical brace remain joined under a load.
 8. The brace assembly of claim 7 wherein said bracket further comprises a flange along said second lateral end for attachment to a vertical post.
 9. The brace assembly of claim 8, further comprising an intermediate brace having a cleat for engagement with at least one of said plurality of keyed openings of said vertical member and a receiving structure on a second end for attaching to said vertical post to form a horizontal support member.
 10. The brace assembly of claim 9 further comprising a plurality of said horizontal support members to form a ladder structure.
 11. The brace assembly of claim 7 wherein the brace assembly further comprises a second adjustable length strut member attached to said vertical member at a different height via an intermediate brace having a cleat at a terminal end and a pivotal attachment point for said second adjustable length strut member.
 12. A method of assembling a bracing structure for a building wall structure, the method comprising: attaching a vertical member to said building wall structure, wherein said vertical member has a substantially z-shaped cross-section including a first flange portion separated from a second flange portion by a web portion, the first flange portion contacting the vertical wall structure and said vertical member includes at least two keyed openings; reversibly securing a bracket to said vertical member via said at least two keyed openings said bracket including a first end including cleat members and a second end; and attaching an adjustable strut member to said bracket at said second end, wherein said at least two keyed openings of said vertical member have a key-shape defining a major axis parallel to said longitudinal axis of said vertical member, said keyed openings respectively comprising an upper section for receiving one of said cleat members and a lower section for slidably engaging said respective cleat member via an interference fit wherein the vertical member and bracket are reversibly joined without the use of a separate fastener wherein the bracket and vertical brace remain joined under a load.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein said vertical member further comprises a first longitudinal member, a second longitudinal member, and an extension member, each of said first and second longitudinal members including a plurality of said keyed openings, said extension member including a plurality of engagement members, the method further comprising: engaging at least one of said plurality of engagement members with said keyed openings in said first longitudinal member; and engaging at least one other of said plurality of engagement members with said keyed openings in said second longitudinal member.
 14. The method of claim 13 wherein said engagement members are cleats. 